The Pope’s Message reads as follows:
On the happy occasion of the Sixtieth Anniversary of the ordination to the priesthood of the Most Reverand Joseph Mercieca, Archbishop Emeritus of Malta, I give thanks to God for the many graces bestowed on the Church through the Archbishop’s pastoral charity and dedicated ministry. I pray that the Holy Spirit will continue to sustain Archbishop Mercieca with strong faith and generous love. Entrusting His Grace to the intercession of Saint Gorg Preca and the tender care of Mary, mother of the Church, I cordially impart my Apostolic Blessing.
From the Vatican, 8 March 2012
Benedict PP XVI